Malaysia will have tougher drug laws

Malaysia will have tougher drug laws in an effort to curb drug abuse from the grassroots to the traffickers, suppliers and manufacturers.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said the Dangerous Drugs Act (Special Preventive Measures) 1985 and the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 will be enhanced to create a specific provision on Ketum leaf.

"Motions to enhance the Acts are expected to be tabled in parliament before June 15, 2015," he told reporters after a meeting of the Penang Anti-Drug Committee, here Thursday.

He said the ministry would also conduct studies and hold discussions with representatives of NGOs and related parties.

"So far I have met with 30 NGOs to get their feedback. I want to drag all involved in drugs to court."

Wan Junaidi said 49.6 percent of individuals serving time in prison were involved in drugs related offences.

Up to May 8, a total of 4,473 people were undergoing treatment in the Cure & Care Rehabilitation Centre (CCRC) while more than 1,600 people were treated at 1Malaysia clinics nationwide.